Loan

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Loan'

The act of giving money, property or other material goods to a another party in exchange for future repayment of the principal amount along with interest or other finance charges. A loan may be for a specific, one-time amount or can be available as open-ended credit up to a specified ceiling amount.  
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Loan'

The terms of a standardized loan are formally presented (usually in writing) to each party in the transaction before any money or property changes hands. If a lender requires any collateral, this will be stipulated in the loan documents as well. Most loans also have legal stipulations regarding the maximum amount of interest that can be charged, as well as other covenants such as the length of time before repayment is required.  

Loans can come from individuals, corporations, financial institutions and governments. They are a way to grow the overall money supply in an economy as well as open up competition, introduce new products and expand business operations. Loans are a primary source of revenue for many financial institutions such as banks, as well as some retailers through the use of credit facilities.  

Sign Up For Term of the Day!

Try Our Stock Simulator!

Test your trading skills!

Related Definitions

  1. Guarantor

    A person who ...
  2. Loan Officer

    Representatives ...
  3. Creditor

    An entity ...
  4. Paydown

    This occurs when ...
  5. Grace Period

    A provision in ...
  6. Advance Rate

    The maximum ...
  7. Cash Advance

    A service ...
  8. Loan Syndication

    The process of ...
  9. Mortgage

    A debt ...
  10. Policy Loan

    A loan issued by ...

Articles Of Interest

  1. The Bright Side Of The Credit Crisis

    Find out how this tough economic period can be a learning experience for all.
  2. How To Read Loan And Credit Card Agreements

    The devil is always in the details! Find out what you're signing yourself up for.
  3. Getting A Loan Without Your Parents

    Use the 5 "W"s to finance your dreams without banking on a second signature.
  4. Compare Local Interest Rates

    Search and compare the best checking and savings rates nationwide from Bankrate.com. Click Here!
  5. Different Needs, Different Loans

    Find out what options are available when it comes to borrowing money.
  6. Debt Consolidation Made Easy

    These five steps can help get you out of debt faster and easier than you'd ever imagined.
  7. Digging Out Of Personal Debt

    Find out why good intentions can put consumers in an even bigger hole than before.
  8. The Importance Of Your Credit Rating

    A great starting point for learning what a credit score is, how it is calculated and why it is so important.
  9. Personal Loans: To Lend Or Not To Lend?

    Attempting to help a loved one with a cash loan can put a strain on your relationship - and your bank account.
  10. Top 7 Most Common Financial Mistakes

    Choose fortune over disaster by avoiding these money traps.

comments powered by Disqus
Recommended
Loading, please wait...
Trading Center